It is my pleasure to welcome our Cumberland House families to Lake Joondalup Baptist College for 2022. I would like to extend a special welcome to all our Year 7 students and the seven new families that join us in other year levels. This year promises to be one of new experiences where I hope that you enjoy the journey and make the most of the opportunities before you.

I am filled with great expectations for this year and those to come as the new Head of House Cumberland. I would like to honour Mrs Nola Hebiton for the foundation she has built over her 14 years of serving the Cumberland House family and though her role changes; her pride and passion for the House remains with us as a Cumberland Connect teacher. I look forward to walking alongside the families of this wonderful and dynamic House as I seek to support our students in obtaining the very best in their journey.

Our Cumberland House Council for 2022 have already begun their preparations to build House community and spirit. They gathered for our Student Council Induction Day working through team-building activities and establishing vision for the House for the year. I am excited to work with our House Captains, James and Rebecca as they serve and lead their fellow Cumberland students. I would like to introduce the rest of the Cumberland 2022 Student Council, who are eager to do their part in building upon what Cumberland already brings to the College community:

Year 11: Scott and Eliza

Year 10: Louis-John and Elizabeth 

Year 9: Thomas and Emily

Year 8: Luke and Amiya  

I encourage all Cumberland students to make the most of the opportunities presented to them this year. The College offers a wider range of clubs, teams and events which build character, skills, friendships and community here at LJBC. Let me challenge you to step outside your comfort zone, try something new, develop new skills and widen your relationships here at the College; and don’t forget, there are plenty of House Shields for Cumberland to win!  

I would like to close with a reflection on the scripture that Cumberland has adopted.

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

This was a promise to a specific people during a specific period of uncertain and strenuous times; however, this scripture is timeless and is certainly relevant today. I would like to encourage all our students and their families that though we face uncertain and difficult circumstances, let us not fall into a place of fear but move forward in strength and solidarity. To those of the Christian faith, let us remind ourselves and one another that He is with you, to strengthen you and uphold you.

Again, I look to 2022 with great expectations where I hope it is filled with opportunities for growth for our students, our families, our staff and the wider College community. May 2022 be a year which allows for a deepening of relationships and development for us all.

Matthew Potts

Head of House Cumberland

Matthew.Potts@ljbc.wa.edu.au